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An Emmy for Claire Danes in 'Temple Grandin'?

February 8, 2010 | 3:17
pm

Kevin Lewin of World Entertainment News Network was so knocked out by viewing "Temple Grandin" that he wrote this piece for Gold Derby readers to warn them of major Emmy love ahead. In the TV film now airing on HBO, Claire Danes portrays a real-life autistic woman who became a leading scientist in humane livestock handling. Words below are Kev's:

Wow! And I mean WOW!!! Claire Danes had better hit the hardware store and pick up a good-sized wheelbarrow because she's going to clean up at all the TV awards ceremonies this year. All bets are off!

I can't remember the last time I was so moved by a performance in a TV movie and HBO's "Temple Grandin" just blew me away — so much so that I feel compelled to tell everyone in blogland that you HAVE to see this piece of magic. And who knew Ms. Danes was the new Streep? Maybe playing the great one's daughter in "The Hours" rubbed off.

Don't get me wrong, Danes isn't exactly terrible — I loved her in "Shopgirl" and a handful of other roles, but I raised an eyebrow when I first learned she'd be portraying the brilliant Temple G. I now feel I must publicly apologize to the new Mrs. Dancy for doubting her. I truly thought this role would be a tremendous reach for her.

Sorry, Claire.

Obviously, I'm not an expert on animal husbandry, autism or Temple Grandin for that matter, but I know when I'm watching something of great worth, and this HBO gem would have been an Oscar contender in many categories if it had been a cinema release. Kudos to HBO again.

From Mick Jackson's expert direction and the wonderful support of Julia Ormond, Catherine O'Hara and the always brilliant David Strathairn, this is a TV movie you have to see. Just breathtaking.

And, again, apologies to Ms. Danes. I will now be at the front of the line for anything you do. Enjoy the acclaim.